Mohs-Type Surgery vs. Traditional Excision: What’s the Difference?
When individuals read about the benefits of Mohs surgery over standard excision for treating skin cancer or even suspected skin cancer, they ask, “Then, why wouldn’t anyone go with Mohs?” The answer lies in understanding the nuances of both procedures.
While Mohs surgery certainly has its advantages, especially for certain types of skin cancer, it may not be the best choice for everyone or every situation. Let us guide you through the comparison between Mohs surgery and standard excision to help you understand when one might be favored over the other.
What is MOHs Surgery?
Mohs type surgery is a highly specialised procedure used primarily to treat skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Key Features of MOHs-Type Surgery:
- Mohs-type surgery removes skin cancer layer by layer, examining each under a microscope for precise removal with minimal tissue loss—ideal for delicate areas like the face and eyelids.
- Traditional Excision removes a wider margin of tissue in one go, which may lead to more scarring and, in some cases, require additional surgery if cancer cells remain.
- Mohs-type surgery offers higher cure rates, better cosmetic results, and minimal scarring.
- Mohs surgery may be recommended for the most prevalent types of cancer (basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas), as well as cosmetically and functionally sensitive areas like the face, neck, scalp, ears, fingers, and toes. Mohs is also used when an area of concern has a recurrence following earlier treatment.
What is Traditional Excision Surgery?
Wide excision surgery, also known as standard excision surgery, involves removing the visible tumor along with a margin of healthy skin. The excised tissue is then sent for pathology analysis to ensure that all cancerous cells are removed.
Key Features of Traditional Excision Surgery:
- Removes the tumor in one step with predetermined margins.
- Requires pathology review, which may take a few days.
- Leaves a larger scar compared to Mohs surgery.
- May require additional surgeries if cancer cells remain.
Which Two Features of MOHs Surgery Distinguish it from Traditional Excision?
- Real-Time Microscopic Analysis – In Mohs surgery, tissue is examined immediately during the procedure, reducing the risk of cancerous cells being left behind.
- Tissue Conservation – Because Mohs surgery removes only the affected layers, it preserves more healthy skin, making it ideal for delicate areas like the nose, eyelids, and ears.
Cost of MOHs surgery vs excision
The cost of Mohs surgery vs. excision varies depending on factors like the complexity of the procedure, location, and whether follow-up treatments are required. Mohs surgery is more expensive due to its real-time microscopic evaluation and precision. However, it can reduce the need for follow-up treatments, potentially lowering long-term costs.
How Long does MOHs Surgery take?
The duration of Mohs surgery depends on the number of cancerous layers present.
- On average, Mohs surgery takes 2-4 hours, as each layer must be examined before proceeding.
- Excision surgery, by contrast, is quicker, usually lasting 30-60 minutes, but may require additional surgeries if the margins are not clear.
Why Excision instead of MOHs Surgery?
While Mohs surgery is highly effective, excision surgery is sometimes preferred in cases where:
- The cancer is not in a high-risk area.
- The patient wants a quicker, single-step procedure.
- The tumor is deep-seated (e.g., melanoma), making excision a more effective option.
Consult Dr. Frank Conroy for Expert Care
Deciding between Mohs-type surgery vs. traditional excision depends on the type, location, and stage of skin cancer.
Dr. Frank Conroy is a renowned specialist who can guide you toward the best treatment plan.
Book a consultation today for expert skin cancer care.
FAQ's
Mohs surgery removes skin cancer in layers, examining each layer under a microscope to ensure all cancer is gone. Excision removes the tumor in one go, with a larger margin of healthy tissue around it, and it is often sent for lab testing afterward.
- Mohs surgery involves examining each layer of tissue during surgery to ensure cancer is completely removed.
- It has a high cure rate, often eliminating the need for further surgeries.
Mohs surgery is also known as Mohs micrographic surgery.
